The City of Summit has designated the month of September as Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad month.
During the Sept. 19 Common Council meeting, Summit Mayor Nora Radest will acknowledge the squad for more than 55 years of dedicated service to the Summit community.
"The Summit Volunteer First Aid Squad provides an essential service and is truly dedicated to protecting and serving the citizens of Summit," explains Mayor Radest. "Whether it is for a simple injured ankle or a serious cardiac arrest, these highly-trained and committed volunteers are always prepared to help and ready when needed. I am honored to recognize the squad this evening and proclaim September as First Aid Squad month. Thank you for the important role you play in our community."
Founded in 1962, the SVFAS serves as the primary Emergency Medical Services agency for the city, operating three fully-equipped ambulances, a first response truck, special operations trailer and one of the first EMS bike teams in New Jersey.
Each year and on a 24-hour basis, the SVFAS responds to more than 2300 medical 9-1-1 calls from Summit residents and people from nearby communities, provides mutual aid support, stand-by coverage at community events and non-emergency medical transport.
Staffed entirely by volunteers, the SVFAS has 65 adult members and 20 junior cadets. Its operations are funded solely through private contributions saving the City of Summit more than two million dollars annually for EMS services.
Radest continues: "The First Aid Squad's annual fundraising drive will begin later this week and I encourage all Summit citizens to generously support it."
For information on becoming a SVFAS volunteer or how to make a donation, call 908-277-9479 or visit summitems.org.
Submitted by the City of Summit